AquaForte Midi Power UVC 40 Watts Pond Sterilizer

Introduction

The AquaForte Midi Power UVC is a powerful and universal UV sterilizer designed for garden ponds and aquariums. This system effectively prevents bacterial turbidity and green water by exposing passing water to UV-C radiation. The UV-C light, a cosmic radiation not naturally present on Earth, is highly effective against pathogens (bacteria, viruses, fungi), parasites, and filamentous algae spores, as organisms have not adapted to it. Integrating this UV-C system into your filtration setup improves water quality, enhancing the living conditions and health of aquatic animals.

This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient installation, operation, and maintenance of your AquaForte Midi Power UVC 40 Watts unit.

Important Safety Information

• Read all instructions: Before installation and operation, carefully read and understand all instructions in this manual.
• Electrical Safety: Always disconnect the power supply before performing any maintenance or installation. Ensure the unit is connected to a properly grounded outlet. Do not operate if the power cord or plug is damaged.
• UV-C Radiation: Never look directly at the UV-C lamp when it is illuminated, as UV-C radiation is harmful to eyes and skin. The lamp is enclosed within a quartz glass tube for safety during operation.
• Water Pressure: Do not exceed the maximum operating pressure of 2 bars.
• Installation: Install the unit according to the instructions to prevent water leakage and electrical hazards. Ensure all connections are secure.
• Children and Pets: Keep the unit and its components out of reach of children and pets.

Package Contents

Verify that all components are present and undamaged before proceeding with installation.

Image: Overview of the AquaForte Midi Power UVC 40 Watts unit, including the stainless steel housing, electronic ballast, UV lamp (inside the housing), and various connection adapters.

• 1 x AquaForte Midi Power UVC Unit (Stainless Steel Housing)
• 1 x T5 UV Lamp (pre-installed or separate, check packaging)
• 1 x Electronic Ballast
• 3 x 63 mm PVC Connectors (for gluing)
• 1 x Blind Cap (for unused port)
• 2 x Special Flexible Hose Adapters (32/38/40/50 mm)
• Mounting hardware (screws, seals, etc., typically included)

Setup and Installation

Proper installation is crucial for the efficient and safe operation of your UVC unit. This unit is designed for integration into your pond's filtration system.

1. Choosing a Location

• Install the UVC unit after the pond pump and before the biological filter. This ensures that larger debris is filtered out before reaching the UVC, and beneficial bacteria in the biological filter are not exposed to UV-C radiation.
• Ensure the unit is installed in a dry, protected area, away from direct sunlight and freezing temperatures.
• Allow sufficient space around the unit for maintenance, especially for lamp replacement.

2. Connecting the Water Flow

The unit features multiple connection options for various hose and pipe diameters.

Image: Connection options for the AquaForte Midi Power UVC, illustrating the multi-step flexible hose adapters (32mm, 38mm, 40mm, 50mm) and the 63mm PVC connection point.

• For PVC Pipes (63 mm): Use the provided 63 mm PVC connectors. These can be glued directly to your existing PVC pipe system. Ensure a watertight seal using appropriate PVC adhesive.
• For Flexible Hoses (32/38/40/50 mm): Attach the special flexible hose adapters to the UVC unit's inlets/outlets. Cut the adapter to the desired diameter (32mm, 38mm, 40mm, or 50mm) to match your hose. Secure the hose with a hose clamp to prevent leaks.
• The unit has two inlet/outlet ports and one blind cap. Connect your water inlet to one port and the outlet to the other. Use the blind cap to seal any unused port securely.
• Ensure the water flow direction matches the arrows on the unit (if present) or that water enters one end and exits the other.
• The maximum flow rate for this unit is 15,000 liters per hour (15m³/h). Ensure your pump's flow rate does not exceed this.

3. Electrical Connection

• Connect the electronic ballast to the UVC unit.
• Ensure the ballast is placed in a dry, protected location.
• Plug the power cord into a grounded electrical outlet. Do not power on the unit until all water connections are secure and checked for leaks.

Operating Instructions

Once installed, operating the AquaForte Midi Power UVC is straightforward.

• Initial Start-up: After ensuring all water connections are secure and there are no leaks, turn on your pond pump to allow water to flow through the UVC unit.
• Power On: Plug the UVC unit's power cord into the electrical outlet. The UV lamp will illuminate, and the unit will begin sterilizing the water.
• Continuous Operation: For optimal results, the UVC unit should operate continuously during the pond season (when water temperatures are above 10°C / 50°F).
• Indicator Light: Many electronic ballasts include an indicator light to show that the UV lamp is functioning. Refer to your ballast's specific instructions if available.

Image: A close-up view of the AquaForte Midi Power UVC unit, highlighting its robust construction and purpose for maintaining clear pond water.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and effectiveness of your AquaForte Midi Power UVC unit.

1. UV Lamp Replacement

• The effective lifespan of a UV-C lamp is approximately 8,000 to 9,000 operating hours (roughly one pond season). After this period, the UV-C output significantly diminishes, even if the lamp still glows.
• Replace the UV lamp annually, preferably at the start of each pond season, to maintain optimal performance.
• To Replace the Lamp:
  1. Disconnect Power: Always unplug the unit from the electrical outlet before attempting any maintenance.
  2. Shut Off Water Flow: Close any valves to stop water flow through the UVC unit.
  3. Drain Unit: Allow the unit to drain completely.
  4. Access Lamp: Carefully open the housing according to the unit's design (usually by unscrewing an end cap).
  5. Remove Old Lamp: Gently pull out the old UV lamp from its socket. Handle with care as it may be fragile.
  6. Clean Quartz Sleeve: While the unit is open, inspect and clean the quartz glass sleeve. Use a soft cloth and a mild cleaning solution (e.g., vinegar or a specialized quartz cleaner) to remove any mineral deposits or algae that may reduce UV-C penetration. Rinse thoroughly.
  7. Install New Lamp: Insert the new T5 UV lamp into the socket, ensuring it is seated correctly. Avoid touching the glass part of the new lamp with bare hands; use gloves or a clean cloth.
  8. Reassemble: Securely reassemble the housing, ensuring all seals are properly seated to prevent leaks.
  9. Restore Power and Water: Reopen water valves, check for leaks, and then plug the unit back into the electrical outlet.

2. Cleaning the Quartz Sleeve

The quartz glass sleeve protects the UV lamp from water and allows UV-C light to pass through. Over time, mineral deposits and algae can accumulate on its surface, reducing the effectiveness of the UV-C radiation. Clean the quartz sleeve at least once a year, or more frequently if water conditions are poor, during lamp replacement.

3. Winter Storage

• Before freezing temperatures arrive, disconnect the UVC unit from the power supply and water circulation.
• Drain all water from the unit to prevent freezing damage.
• Clean the unit thoroughly, including the quartz sleeve.
• Store the unit in a dry, frost-free location during winter.

Troubleshooting

Specifications

Warranty and Support

Warranty Information

AquaForte products are manufactured to high-quality standards. For specific warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official AquaForte website. Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.

Note: The UV lamp is a consumable item and typically not covered under the standard product warranty.

Customer Support

If you encounter any issues not covered in the troubleshooting section or require further assistance, please contact your AquaForte dealer or visit the official AquaForte website for support contact details.

Website: www.aquaforte.com